If you’re like us, your closet is likely littered with clothes that no longer fit, items that just aren’t your style anymore, or things you simply forgot you had. But before you Marie Kondo the place and throw everything out, stop and ask yourself: Can I upcycle this? We bet the answer is yes — here are a few fun ways to get started.
1. Dressed-Up Denim
Real talk: denim can be a finicky fabric to work with. But these machine embroidery techniques will make you a master of the medium as you revamp old jeans into the coolest fashion statement.
Good to Know: If you’re more into hand embroidery, we’ve got a class for that, too.
2. A Top That’s Sheer Genius
Cut off the back and stitch on some gorgeous sheer fabric — yep, it’s that easy! This flowy top is sure to keep you cool and stylish all season.
3. Mini Magic
Take that maxi dress and turn it into a fab mini skirt. If you’ve got a bold print, you can cut out your favorite parts and make the skirt of your dreams (leaving all the parts you’re not vibing in the scrap pile).
4. A Statement Necklace
Simple cutting, gluing and wrapping is all that stands between you and a favorite statement necklace. The best part? You can make it in under an hour!
5. The Thriftiest Cap
This hat actually repurposes two garments — a wool skirt and dress shirt. It’s twice as thrifty and twice as fun!
6. A DIY Dye
When you think about dyeing cloth, your mind may go straight to summer camp. But think beyond tie dye and learn to turn plain clothes into gorgeous garments with these tips for dyeing the best patterns.
7. A Quilt From Clothes
What’s more fun than making a quilt for cheap? Turning your favorite T-shirts into one-of-a-kind blocks and stitching it all together. And yep, it’s a great project for saving all your kiddo’s favorite T-shirts once they’re outgrown!
8. An Off-the-Cuff Wallet
A wallet made from shirt cuffs? Awesome! Pro tip: Before you start stitching, measure a dollar bill against the cuffs to make sure your wallet will be the right size.
9. Stitched-Up Style
Give clothes new life with a simple needle, hoop and floss. All you gotta do is brush up on basic hand embroidery stitches to create a one-of-a-kind piece.
10. A Color-Blocked Top
We love a simple T-shirt revamp! Not only does it completely take an old piece of clothing to a new level, but it also happens to be a great hack for getting rid of pesky tears or stains down by the hem.
11. The Most Fashion-Forward Apron
Your new, stylish apron is only a few steps (and a closet raid) away. Grab an oversized shirt and start cutting — you’ll be done so fast!
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